Stop Shrinkage: How to Wash Kids' Knits and Cardigans

Quick answer

Wash kids' knits and cardigans in cold water on a gentle cycle or by hand, then reshape and dry flat away from heat. Never wring, tumble dry, or hang wet knits, as these cause shrinkage and distortion. For best results, follow the care label and treat stains promptly.

Why kids' knits shrink: the science of fiber and heat

Shrinkage in kids' knits happens when heat, moisture, and agitation cause fibers to contract. Wool and cotton are especially prone because their fibers have scales or crimps that interlock when exposed to heat and movement. Even synthetic blends can shrink if the fabric is loosely knit. The key is to minimize these stressors during washing and drying.

Step-by-step: washing kids' cardigans and knits safely

Always check the care label first. If it says dry clean only, follow that. For washable knits, use a mesh laundry bag to prevent stretching. Select the delicate cycle with cold water and a low spin speed. Use a gentle detergent without bleach or fabric softener. If hand washing, gently squeeze suds through the garment without rubbing. Rinse in cool water until no soap remains.

• Turn the garment inside out to protect the surface.
• Use a front-loading washer if possible; top-loaders with agitators are rougher.
• For hand washing, support the wet garment with both hands to avoid stretching.

Drying knit sweaters without shrinkage

Never put kids' knits in the dryer. Heat and tumbling are the main causes of shrinkage. Instead, lay the garment flat on a clean towel, reshape it to its original dimensions, and let it air dry away from direct sunlight or radiators. For faster drying, roll the knit in a dry towel to absorb excess water before laying flat. Hanging wet knits will stretch them out of shape.

Rescuing a shrunken knit: what works and what doesn't

If a knit has already shrunk, you can sometimes relax the fibers by soaking it in cool water with a little hair conditioner, then gently stretching it back to shape and drying flat. This works best on wool and cotton, but it's not a guaranteed fix. If the garment is severely felted or the fibers are matted, it's likely beyond saving. At that point, consider repurposing it or passing it on.

Diagnosis: common knit problems and fixes

• Symptom: Garment shrunk after washing: Likely cause: Exposure to heat during washing or drying, or agitation in the machine. Corrective action: Soak in cool water with conditioner, gently stretch, and dry flat. If fibers are matted, it may be permanent.
• Symptom: Knit stretched out of shape: Likely cause: Hanging wet or using a high spin cycle. Corrective action: Re-wet and reshape, then dry flat. Next time, use a mesh bag and low spin.
• Symptom: Pilling or fuzz balls: Likely cause: Friction from other garments or rough surfaces. Corrective action: Use a fabric shaver or gently remove pills by hand. Wash inside out to reduce friction.

Product care notes

• star long sleeved rashguard: An essential nununu resort piece for boys & girls, a black rashie gets our shiny star print all over. Great for sun protection and paddling out on the boogie board, we’ve got that classic high-collar look with long sleeves. While not a knit, this rashguard shares the need for gentle care to prevent stretching and fading. Always rinse in cold water after swimming and dry flat.